10 Huge Recurring Problems The MCU Needs To Solve
3. Feige Over Filmmakers
Despite what they want you to believe, Marvel is still not a filmmaker-driven studio. While the directors have enjoyed more creative freedom in recent years, they are still required to hit the mandated story points outlined by Kevin Feige, the brains behind the MCU and the man that connects all of the dots.
The 'shared universe' concept adopted by Marvel has been likened to an episodic series with Kevin Feige as the showrunner, as opposed to the typical franchise model built on sequels. The description fits as the studio frequently hires less-established directors that fit the established aesthetic, and have had 'creative differences' with a number of big-name talents.
Matthew Vaughn, Patty Jenkins, Edgar Wright, and Ava DuVernay have all dropped out of Marvel projects while Joss Whedon, so influential in The Avengers' success, voiced his dissatisfaction with the studio. James Gunn has the most creative freedom out of anyone involved in the MCU, but partly because the Guardians of the Galaxy exist in their own corner away from the core Avengers.
As Edgar Wright diplomatically put it surrounding his departure from Ant-Man: "I wanted to make a Marvel movie, but they didn't want to make an Edgar Wright movie."
Marvel should be applauded for taking chances on hiring lesser-known directors that both deliver strong blockbuster entertainment and boost their careers in the process, but the MCU is crying out for more unique and distinctive filmmaking. Coincidentally, it looks as though Taika Waititi and Ryan Coogler may be doing just that.